The Santa Train

Step aboard the Santa Train for an enchanting journey through the picturesque Stradbally Woodland.

Quick Details

Bookings Will Be Available Soon

A Magical Steam-Powered Christmas Adventure

Step into a festive wonderland at Stradbally Woodland Railway and climb aboard The Santa Train — a joyful, steam-powered Christmas experience for the whole family. From the moment you arrive, our cheerful elves will greet you at the Welcome Hut with a warm smile, your train ticket, and a little pouch of magic reindeer dust to save for the big night.

Before your journey begins, enjoy festive fun on our platform with face painting, games, and Christmas cheer. Then it’s time to board our beloved locomotive Róisín, now transformed into a magical sleigh on rails, for a scenic ride through our enchanted winter woodland in the company of Mrs Claus herself. Keep an eye out for Santa’s reindeer and woodland creatures along the way!

What’s Included in The Santa Train Experience

Magical Welcome by Our Elves – Receive your golden ticket and reindeer dust at check-in and get into the Christmas spirit.
Festive Platform Entertainment – Enjoy music, laughter and face painting while you wait for your steam journey to begin.
Train Ride Through the Winter Woods – Hop aboard Róisín with Mrs Claus for a 1km ride around our decorated forest track.
Spot Santa’s Reindeer – Keep your eyes peeled for surprises in the woods as the magic unfolds around you.
Post Your Wish List – Drop your Christmas letter in Santa’s special post box when you return to the station.
Meet Santa Claus – Every child will meet Santa and receive a specially chosen present to take home.
Warm Up at Steamin’ Brews – Treat yourself to a hot chocolate or festive drink at our cosy café.

“Had a fantastic day out at the Santa Experience today. The whole family enjoyed it especially my son who is train mad. A big thank you to all the staff for making it a wonderful experience…”

P. Shaw

“Great santa train experience. Kids loved it and hot chocolate was enjoyed after trip. Highly recommend it.”

P. O’Sullivan

“Great experience with my 3 year old, she loved it. The first Santa she was willing to chat to, he was great. Very friendly staff too, loads of characters she could interact with.”

P. Hassett

“Went with three children ages 3, 5 and 8. All three of them loved it. All of the staff were excellent and Santa was fantastic with each child. Definitely worth a visit.”

K. Vaughan

A look back at our magical Santa Train journeys, filled with festive cheer, steam, and snowy surprises.

Two young women dressed as Christmas elves, wearing red and green outfits with festive hats, stand smiling in front of a colourful train decoration.

Christmas-themed wooden cabin decorated with festive lights, featuring two cheerful elf statues, one holding a toy and the other a letter.

Two women in festive elf costumes pose beside a vintage train carriage, adorned with Christmas decorations.

Two women dressed as festive elves pose with an older man in a green coat. They’re smiling and have playful red face paint, surrounded by Christmas decorations.

Christmas tree adorned with decorations beside a red train carriage on a gravel path, with bare trees and festive lights overhead against a cloudy sky.

Family posing with Santa Claus in a festive setting, surrounded by Christmas decorations and twinkling lights, capturing a joyful holiday moment.

Families enjoying a festive event outdoors, with a decorated Christmas tree and colourful lights illuminating the scene. Children wear Santa hats while boarding a festive train, and staff in holiday attire interact with visitors amidst a charming winter atmosphere.

Important Information

Plan Your Visit

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get a gift with my ticket?

Each child’s ticket comes with a gift from Santa. Please note teen tickets do not include a gift.

What is the programme?

You are welcomed into the railway and brought to the train. After your journey through the woodlands you are brought down to our Santa Village where there are plenty of photo opportunities and our Steamin Brews Café to grab a hot drink or sweet treat.

Is there parking available?

Yes we have parking available within walking distance of the train.

Do you have carers discounts?

No, unfortunately we do not accept carers discount at this time.

Are there opportunities to take your photo with Santa?

Our elves take your family photo in the grotto with Santa. Please note we do not allow your own photography inside the Grotto but there are plenty of photo opportunities for your own pictures outside in the Santa Village.

How long is the experience?

The experience is approx. 45 mins long.

Do I have to arrive at my designated time slot?

Yes, our train has a capacity so people would arrive.

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